Vikings stadium: Experts like look of design

Three opinionated local experts shared their first impressions of the new Vikings stadium design. All three gave it high marks.

ANN VODA

Credentials: President and principal owner of Minneapolis-based architectural firm Bentz, Thompson and Rietow; president of the American Institute of Architects Minnesota; winner of the 2009 Women in Business-Industry Leader Award by Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal

Her take: The Vikings Stadium schematic design rollout was very exciting, and the architects gave a presentation that thoughtfully addressed important design considerations: a multi-purpose venue, with natural light, air circulation and ventilation. The interiors look clean, spacious and contemporary. The west pivot wall and large plaza to open the views and physically connect to downtown are solid urban design moves. But for a building that has "no back side," it's hard to tell whether there are community connections to the West Bank, the Mississippi River or even Elliot Park. We'll wait and see as the design develops.

PHILLIP KOSKI

Credentials: Founder of Koski Architecture who worked on the restoration of local landmarks such as the Hennepin Theater District Streetscape; board member of the nonprofit Preserve Minneapolis; regular contributor to Architecture Minnesota magazine.

His take: As a long-time resident, I'm excited to get a stadium that is as progressive and forward-looking as the creative professionals who live and work here.

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It will help erase the soon-to-be bad memories of the Metrodome and its bunkerlike, lumbering presence. The new design is bold, angular and sculptural -- totally appropriate for a building of this scale and cultural importance. The big gesture suggests a Nordic maritime aesthetic with its ribbed, boat-shaped outline and projecting westward prow.

KRISTIN ANDERSON

Credentials: Art and architectural history professor at Augsburg College; president of the Minnesota Chapter of the Society of Architectural Historians; co-author of an upcoming book on the history of Twin Cities sports facilities.

Her take: It seemed to me they looked pretty closely at the Metrodome -- and did something completely different. I was pleased to see they've made some connections to points of design excellence in the area, such as the Minneapolis Library and the Guthrie Theater. It was interesting to see some Scandinavian influences, as well. I think this stadium is going to make a major design statement.